Virpax Pharmaceuticals has announced an extension of its research agreement with the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). This extended collaboration focuses on the continued development of NES100, an intranasal peptide being investigated for acute and chronic non-cancer pain management. NES100 utilizes a novel nanotechnology delivery approach for enkephalin, a naturally occurring peptide typically difficult to administer effectively due to its metabolic instability. The nanotechnology is designed to enhance enkephalin’s delivery to the brain via the nasal route, a potential first for this type of therapy. This is achieved through a specialized device and cartridge system propelling the formulation along the olfactory nerve pathway. The Molecular Envelope Technology (MET) employed aims to protect the drug during its journey to the brain and facilitate binding to delta opioid receptors for rapid pain relief. Preclinical animal studies have shown NES100’s potential for analgesic effects without the typical opioid-related adverse events, such as tolerance, withdrawal, respiratory depression, euphoria, or addiction.
This extended collaboration with NCATS signifies a potentially significant step in pain management research. It highlights the growing interest in developing non-opioid alternatives for both acute and chronic pain, addressing the ongoing opioid crisis. The research could pave the way for safer and more effective pain therapies that don’t carry the risks of addiction and other harmful side effects often associated with traditional opioids. This collaboration aligns with the NIH’s Helping to End Addiction Long-term (HEAL) initiative, underscoring the national effort to combat opioid addiction. The development of a non-addictive pain treatment could offer much-needed solutions for individuals suffering from chronic pain conditions, improving their quality of life and reducing the societal burden of opioid misuse.
The continued development of NES100 holds considerable promise. It offers the potential for a novel pain management option without the concerns of opioid dependence and related complications. If proven effective and safe in clinical trials, NES100 could become a valuable tool for managing various types of pain, offering an alternative for patients who cannot tolerate or have not responded to other treatments. The intranasal delivery method could provide a more convenient and less invasive approach compared to other drug administration routes, potentially improving patient adherence and treatment outcomes. This advancement could significantly impact the lives of countless individuals struggling with pain, enabling them to lead more fulfilling lives without the limitations and risks associated with current opioid therapies. Furthermore, it could offer physicians a safer and more effective alternative for their patients, allowing for better pain management strategies and reducing reliance on potentially harmful opioids.
Jon Napitupulu is Director of Media Relations at The Clinical Trial Vanguard. Jon, a computer data scientist, focuses on the latest clinical trial industry news and trends.
